China is ready to work hard with Botswana to advance bilateral ties to a new level, Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing said in Beijing Monday.

Li made the remark during his talks with Mompati Merafhe, minister of foreign affairs and international cooperation of the Republic of Botswana. The bilateral friendly relations have been stable and sound after undergoing the test of volatile international situations since the two countries forged their diplomatic ties, Li acknowledged.

Li appreciated Botswana's support on the one-China policy as well as such major international issues as human rights, saying that China will join hands with Botswana to promote personnel exchanges and expand cooperation in various fields.

Li briefed Merafhe on the active measures China has taken to implement the follow-up activities of the second ministerial meeting of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum, saying that the forum will play an important role in deepening Sino-African cooperation.

Merafhe thanked China for its various kinds of assistance, saying that China was Botswana's most trustworthy friend and the Botswana government would always adhere to the one-China policy and hope for an early reunification.

The African countries appreciated China's efforts to side itself with the African nations and in maintaining world peace and supporting the economic development of the African countries, said Merafhe.

The two foreign ministers exchanged notes on China's free economic aid to Botswana after the talks.

(Xinhua News Agency May 25, 2004)